Bloodshot Eyes: Common Causes and Treatment
Bloodshot eyes are most often due to dilated or swollen blood vessels. It can be a sign of minor irritation or a serious medical issue. Red eyes are called bloodshot as it is the result of blood vessels on the white part of the eyes becoming swollen. Read below to knowtreatment and causes of red veins in eyes.
Causes of Red or Blood Shot Eyes
Red eyes occur when blood vessels present on the surface of the eyes become congested and enlarged with blood. It is due to an insufficient supply of oxygen to the cornea or tissues of the eyes.
The various irritants responsible for the inflamed eyes are dry air, dust, exposure to the sun, viral or bacterial infections, or allergic infections.
Eye conditions that cause red eyes are conjunctivitis, corneal ulcers, glaucoma, blepharitis, and uveitis.
- Conjunctivitis also known as pink eyes happens when the white part of your eyes. The lining of your eyelid becomes inflamed because of a virus or bacteria. This infection spread through direct touch with contaminated fingers or personal items.
- A corneal ulcer is an open sore on the cornea and generally caused by a bacterial infection. People with eyelid disorders, cold sores, and those wearing contact lenses are more prone to corneal ulcers. Corneal ulcers could be a little more serious.
- Blepharitis is the common cause of red eyes caused by impacted oil glands which are unable to release the tear film lipid layer well. The common cause of blepharitis is decreased blink and poor makeup hygiene.
- Uveitis is the inflammation of the eye’s uvea. If left untreated can lead to glaucoma, cataracts, or even blindness. It may be related to infection, autoimmune disorder, or exposure to toxins.
- When the fluid pressure inside the eyes rises quickly it causes glaucoma which is a serious condition and needs to be treated immediately. If untreated, it can damage your optic nerve and other parts of the eyes
- Dry eyes are also a common cause of red eyes when eyes are deprived of natural moisture, eyes tend to tear up. Dry eyes can develop if the glands that produce tears are plugged up with oil and glands. Hormonal changes and some medicines can cause dry eyes.
- Broken blood vessels happen when tiny blood vessels break below the surface of the eye. It can be caused by heavy lifting, strong sneeze, or rubbing your eyes too hard.
- Digital eyes strains are known as computer vision syndrome. Long hours spent on digital screens often cause digital eyes strain.
Other causes may include:
- Trauma or injury to the eyes
- Bleeding problems
- Chemical produced due to smoking
- Swimming
- Overconsumption of alcohol
- Overuse of contact lenses
How to Treat Red Eyes?
Red-eye is a matter of concern if it lasts longer than a few days. Talk to an eye doctor near you if you have bloodshot eyes along with:
- Sudden change in vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Pain in eyes
- Swelling
- Discharge from one or both of the eyes
- If you take medicines that thin your blood such as warfarin or heparin.
- Nausea and vomiting.
Some of them are easy to fix while others could be serious. If you are suffering from any of the above-mentioned problems that last more than a few days, it could be a serious matter. You need to consult a Castle Rock optometrist before using any eye drop on your own as it can lead to resistant bacteria and can worsen the infection. Most conditions are readily treatable, but if not treated on time can cause permanent damage to the eyes.
Your eye doctor will ask about the symptoms that irritate your eyes. Depending upon your red eyes symptoms, your doctor may prescribe treatment to alleviate it. The eye specialist will check the eyes and red veins in eyes. He or she will use a saline solution to wash out an irritant in the eyes or may use a neutral shampoo for cleaning eyelid or artificial tears in case of mild irritation or dry eyes because tears can flush allergens like dust or pollens.
If you have any bacterial infection, you may need to take antibiotics. Bloodshot eyes caused by allergies could be treated with eye allergy relieving drugs. If you are suffering from red eyes, book an appointment for a consultation for red-eye treatment in Castle Rock, CO. We have the best eye doctors to diagnose and treat bloodshot eyes.